Yes, missing teeth can hurt, and the pain isn't always localized to the mouth.
According to research, missing teeth can indeed cause pain. The absence of teeth can lead to a variety of problems, some of which manifest as pain in different areas of the body.
How Missing Teeth Can Cause Pain
Missing teeth can lead to pain through several mechanisms:
- Chronic Pain Syndromes: Missing teeth can contribute to chronic pain throughout the face, head, neck, and back.
- Migraine Headaches: Tooth loss has even been linked to migraine headaches.
- Increased Risk of Damage to Remaining Teeth: Remaining teeth are at higher risk of chipping or breaking, which can cause pain.
Consequences of Missing Teeth
Beyond pain, missing teeth can have several consequences for overall health:
- Shifting Teeth: Adjacent teeth can shift into the empty spaces, leading to misalignment and bite problems.
- Bone Loss: The jawbone in the area of the missing tooth can deteriorate over time.
- Difficulty Eating: Chewing can become difficult, leading to dietary changes and potential nutritional deficiencies.
